Gunmen have killed three herders and 14 cattle in an attack in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, leaving two other people with gunshot injuries.
According to the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), the victims were tending to their animals when armed men opened fire on them at about 2:30 p.m. on Thursday around the Bangai community.
MACBAN Secretary, Yahaya Musa, identified the three teenagers killed in the attack as Ismail Idris, 15; Hamza Aminu, 17; and Jafar Umar, 17.
He said Ango Ibrahim, 14, and Abdullahi Buhari, 20, sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to hospital for treatment.
Musa added that 18 cattle were hit during the attack, with 14 killed and four others sustaining severe injuries.
The attack was condemned by leaders of the affected herding community, who described it as another deadly assault on livestock owners and their families.
They called on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation, arrest those responsible and ensure that they are prosecuted.
“This attack has caused painful human losses and destroyed the livelihoods of innocent families,” Musa said.
“We appeal to the authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation, identify those behind the assault and ensure justice is served.”
Musa also urged members of the affected community not to retaliate, stressing that violence would only worsen the crisis.
“We urge our people to remain calm and allow security agencies to perform their duties. Violence will only deepen the crisis, while justice offers the best path to lasting peace,” he added.
The Fulani community also reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence with other ethnic and religious groups, calling on stakeholders to work together to prevent further violence against civilians.
MACBAN alleged that the attackers were suspected members of a Berom militia operating from Anguwan Weren in Rim Ward. However, the association did not publicly provide evidence to substantiate the allegation.
Reacting to the claim, Rwang Tengwong, spokesperson for the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM), denied any involvement by members of the group.
In a telephone interview, Tengwong said the organisation was not aware of the attack and rejected suggestions linking its members to the incident.
As of press time, the Plateau State Police Command and Operation Enduring Peace had yet to officially comment on the incident despite enquiries seeking confirmation.